IJN INCREASES CONTRIBUTION TO IJN FOUNDATION TO RM4.5 MLN

KUALA LUMPUR, March 21 -- The National Heart Institute (IJN) has increased its contribution to the IJN Foundation (IJNF) from RM3.5 million to RM4.5 million this year, reaffirming its commitment to ensuring that financial hardship does not hinder access to life-saving heart treatment.

IJN chairman Tan Sri Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah said the increased contribution underscores IJN’s unwavering resolve to broaden access to vital cardiac treatments for those facing financial hardship.

“Our fees have not been reviewed for the past 20 years. This means that if you have a procedure done in IJN, the fee you pay is of 20 years ago.

“Acknowledging the growing urgency for support, this enhanced commitment aims to assist more patients, fund critical procedures and alleviate the burdens of families navigating medical crises,” he said in his speech at the special cheque handover ceremony here.

The mock cheque was presented by IJN Group chief executive officer Prof Datuk Seri Dr Mohamed Ezani Md Taib to IJNF chairman Toh Puan Dr Aishah Ong, witnessed by Dr Noor Hisham.

Dr Noor Hisham said that by increasing their contribution, IJN hopes to reach more patients and provide greater relief to those in need.

Meanwhile, Dr Aishah said that to date, IJN’s contributions to IJNF have accumulated to RM 67.2 million, a truly meaningful and impactful contribution that has transformed thousands of lives.

“Over the past three decades, IJNF has channelled RM88.7 million into patient assistance, allowing nearly 7,000 individuals from underprivileged communities to receive critical heart surgeries and treatment performed by expert medical teams.

“This support has not only covered surgeries but also ensured post-operative care and rehabilitation, giving patients the best chance for full recovery and an improved quality of life,” she said.

In 2024 alone, the foundation spent RM8.4 million under its Patient Assistance Programme, covering the surgery and treatment costs of 938 patients (398 adults and 540 paediatric cases).

“IJN remains a valued corporate partner in this noble initiative, demonstrating a steadfast commitment to community well-being,” she said.

-- BERNAMA